We may not be in a recession, but there seems to be talk of doom
and gloom when it comes to the current economic conditions. Is it dragging you down? Are you buying into the pessimism and
negativity?
When we entertain thoughts of economic hardship, many people
go into ‘survival mode.’ This is when
our reptilian brain hijacks our thinking and makes us fight, flee or
freeze. This doesn’t make for an
environment of innovative thinking, jumping on opportunities or working
creatively. This creates hibernating in
status quo or worse, and it’s not good for business!
We have something to tell you: You can choose NOT to participate in those
discussions or that way of thinking. Warren
Buffet said, “When the world turns right, turn left!”
Here’s three tips to recession proof your thinking:
1.
Self care:
Now is the time to live consciously – responding out of choice instead
of reacting from fear. Easier said than
done? Maybe, but it’s worth the time
and energy. Try meditating for 20
minutes or walking in nature before you go to work. Set yourself an intention for the day such as,
“I will notice when someone is consistently negative and not enter into
discussion with them,” or “I will only
say positive things today.”
2.
Be honest and supportive with your partner: If you are in a committed relationship,
share your concerns about the present and future. Treat these times as part of your adventure
together. Help each other feel safe even
if the outside world doesn’t seem that way.
3.
Learn to be more optimistic: Some people are naturally more pessimistic
than others. Optimism doesn’t mean
looking at the world with rose-coloured glasses. It means being realistic AND knowing you can
do something to improve the situation.
When something bad happens, pessimists jump into the mindset of
“permanence, prevalence and powerlessness.”
You can begin being more
optimistic by telling yourself, “This is bad, but it’s a one-off, and other areas
of my life are going well. I will
brainstorm with my friend to come up with some solutions.” Becoming more optimistic is like building a
muscle. The more you try, the easier it
will become.
At WLP Success, we help our clients see where they are now,
determine their strengths and weaknesses, and build a plan for a stronger,
sustainable business and life.
